(Institute for National Security Studies-Tel Aviv University) Zaki Shalom - While recognizing the serious negative aspects of the flotilla incident, some dimensions from Israel's point of view are quite positive. First, the international community, led by the American administration, has granted almost full recognition to Israel's fundamental right to prevent the supply of weapons to Hamas in Gaza. A second positive result was in the U.S.-Israel relationship. During the course of UN discussions on the flotilla, the American administration made it clear it would not lend a hand to a sweeping assault on Israel's standing or its legitimate right to defend itself and investigate its own actions. Beyond this, the events have emphasized the "common destiny" shared by Israel and the Palestinian Authority, which is greatly interested in preventing the strengthening of Hamas in Gaza.
2010-06-24 09:00:58Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive